Serbia Health Care and Vaccinations

Health Care

Doctors are well trained but medical facilities are limited. Some medicines may not be as freely available as they are at home. Basic medical treatment is free to UK residents with the better-equipped hospitals located in the bigger cities. Prescribed medicines must be paid for. Private practices and dental clinics will see foreign tourists, but expect to pay a fee; this may be stipulated cash only. Health insurance with emergency repatriation is recommended. Pharmacies are open Mon-Fri 0800-2000 and Sat 0800-1500.

Food and Drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe to drink, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is readily available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat. If in doubt, use common sense and peel, boil or cook food to reduce chances of an upset stomach. Serbia's exchange rate makes it an attractive place to drink and eat out making the risk of a sore head after overindulging all too high!

Other Risks

Tick-borne encephalitis is present in some rural areas. Precautions such as using repellent and wearing long trousers should be taken. Pre-exposure vaccination is not always available. Any ticks found should be carefully removed and medical attention sought. Hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for trips longer than one month. Avoid contact with animals, as rabies can be found in in Serbia. Consider getting vaccinated if you are likely to be in close proximity to animals.